long term rentals

Compliance for South Carolina

Navigating long-term rental (LTR) requirements in Rabun County can feel complex. While the county is best known for its strict short-term rental (STR) licensing, long-term leases also fall under county and city rules for business licensing, property use, and taxation. This page provides an informational overview of compliance considerations for LTR owners in Rabun County.*

*Important: Regulations change frequently, and while we work to provide accurate information, the details here may not always reflect the most current updates. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney or qualified legal representative to ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Feature Packages

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Basic Package

Smart, Simple Support
All the essentials you need—booking, guests, and cleanings—handled with care, so you can relax and stay in control.

Included Services:

• Property management

• Booking management

• Guest support (business hours)

• Cleaning coordination

• Inventory & procurement

(basic restocking)

• Monthly financial reporting

Elite Package

Elevated Service, Happy Guests
Designed for owners who want more—smarter support, better reviews, and a seamless guest experience.

Everything in Basic, plus:

• 24/7 guest support

• Channel management

• Emergency coordination

• Feedback management & review

• Travel consulting for guests

• Local market optimization

• Mid-stay cleaning coordination

• Bimonthly reports with insights

Platinum Package

Luxury Management, Zero Stress
A premium, hands-off experience for second-home owners who
expect nothing but the best.

Everything in Elite, plus:

• Full concierge services

• Pre-arrival home stocking

• Luxury add-ons

• VIP guest experiences

• Priority emergency response

• Dedicated account manager

• Real-time financial dashboard

• Quarterly review & consultation

Aiken County, SC

Business License
- City of Aiken requires business licenses for both STR and LTR.
- County unincorporated areas generally do not.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from accommodations tax.
- Rental income taxable.
Property Tax
- Annual county/city property taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- City of Aiken zoning requires rental properties to meet occupancy and building code standards.
- County zoning applies in unincorporated areas.

Oconee County, SC

Business License
- County does not require one; municipalities (Seneca, Walhalla, Westminster) may.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from state/local accommodations taxes.
- Rental income taxable for state/federal returns.
Property Tax
- Annual property taxes apply.
- Non-owner-occupied units taxed at higher rates.
Permits & Zoning
- Must comply with local city zoning and occupancy codes.
- Residential building and fire codes enforced.

Pickens County, SC

Business License
- County does not require one.
- City of Clemson requires landlord registration and business license (due to student housing demand).
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from accommodations tax.
- Rental income still taxable.
Property Tax
- Annual county/municipal property taxes required.
Permits & Zoning
- Rentals must comply with zoning laws.
- Housing codes enforced more strictly in college rental areas.